Mastering the art of people management at all levels

In the realm of work dynamics, managers wield considerable influence, shaping the culture and direction of the entire organisation. Their skills as leaders, people managers, and domain experts are pivotal for fostering business growth and sustainable success. Therefore, identifying individuals who possess both leadership and business capabilities is paramount for both people and organisational success. Exploring the essence of effective management unveils the core attributes that define exemplary leaders in the workplace. From skillfully guiding teams to building good relationships with superiors, mastering managerial skills is essential.

By delving into what constitutes a proficient people leader and discerning the nuances of workplace dynamics, one can cultivate a robust framework for organisational prosperity.

What makes a good people manager?

While leaders and managers may have overlapping responsibilities, effective people management prioritises fostering a culture of continuous learning and development within teams. They understand that investing in employees' growth not only enhances individual skills but also strengthens the overall capabilities of the team.

• By providing opportunities for training, mentorship, and skill-building exercises, managers empower their team members to reach their full potential.
• Moreover, successful people managers excel at recognising and leveraging the unique strengths of each team member and representing them effectively at the organisational level in a transparent manner. They assign tasks and projects strategically, matching individuals with assignments that align with their skills and interests. This not only boosts productivity but also cultivates a sense of fulfilment and satisfaction among team members.
• In addition, great people managers understand the importance of constructive feedback and recognition. They provide regular feedback to help employees improve and grow, while also acknowledging and celebrating their achievements. This fosters a positive and supportive work environment where team members feel valued and motivated to excel.

How to be an effective people manager?

According to Sagar Pandey, the Head of HR at Swastika Investmart, “People managers drive innovation by developing new strategies, enhancing designs, and optimising processes. Their leadership is characterised by pushing boundaries, being adaptable, and maintaining an open mind. They create a safe space for employees to experiment and innovate without fear of failure. Another key aspect is addressing employee concerns, resolving conflicts, and fostering a culture of trust and collaboration. By ensuring employees feel valued and supported, these managers boost job satisfaction and reduce turnover.”

• Middle managers need to prioritise team members, build on personal values and trust, and demonstrate effective leadership. In the Middle East, where the workforce comprises young talent (Zillennials) and mostly expatriates, it is crucial to value cultural diversity and foster inclusivity to be an effective people manager.
• Adapting to modern workplace culture, where hierarchical structures barely exist, fosters effective communication and collaboration between team members.
• Amidst the changing dynamics of workplaces, it is essential to ensure a sense of job security, career growth, and a balanced life. Therefore, people managers need to prioritise authenticity, openness, and honesty, aiming for a core management ethos that resonates across diverse backgrounds.
• Furthermore, when it comes to dealing with difficult team members, understand that their behaviour often reflects underlying concerns, therefore, an effective people manager can transform these challenges into growth opportunities by emphasising emotional intelligence, clear communication, empathy, and strategic management. The aim is to create a collaborative environment where everyone feels heard, valued, and contributes to the team's success.

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Effective people management at leadership level..

Learning to effectively manage relationships at the company leadership level is crucial for personal and professional growth. Especially when a leader is a challenging boss, it serves as an additional opportunity to shape you into an effective leader as well.

• Developing emotional intelligence by understanding and empathising with their perspective is key. Recognising that most challenging bosses are not inherently bad people but often lack leadership training is important. Practising empathy can transform difficult relationships, as neuroscience suggests that mirroring empathetic behaviours fosters reciprocity.
• Reflecting on one's role in the relationship and seeking self-improvement is vital. Separating past grievances from current interactions can lead to more strategic responses.
• Observing successful interactions between team members and leaders can offer valuable insights. Initiating open, positive communication with the boss to address concerns and seek guidance is essential.
• Using a structured approach can facilitate constructive dialogue and problem-solving. If internal efforts fail to improve the situation and others share similar experiences, involving HR becomes an option. 

“It’s worth remembering that bosses are also human and have the same needs as you and me. Viewing your boss from this perspective makes work life easier; experimentation and pure intentions are key to building, nurturing, and sustaining the relationship in the long run,” says Jaya Nuty, an OD Practitioner and Principal Consultant at Celebratory Network, sharing tips on understanding your boss.

Effective people management skills are paramount for sustained success in organisational dynamics. Identifying individuals embodying excellence in leadership and domain expertise shapes the ethos and trajectory of enterprises. By fostering a culture of continuous learning, leveraging strengths, and prioritising constructive feedback, managers cultivate a robust framework for organisational prosperity.